Terry Brooks’ official Arctic Winter Games badge identifies him as “Chair of the Accommodations Committee 2008.” But you wouldn’t know that to listen to him.

“Pick a card, any card!” is his refrain throughout the day, as he moves among the various venues, spotting any athletes who look a little bored or a little shy. And once that card is picked, Brooks revs up his magic and his patter, engaging the young competitors in his tricks.

“I make it interactive; the kids are part of the act. We have fun, the time goes fast, and people end up making friends.”

Brooks has been serious about his magic act for about five years. He hasn’t quit his day job yet; back home in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, he works for the government as the manager of property assessment. He’s also a school board trustee, which means he often visits schoolsand often performs his magic tricks while doing so. He’s also a charter member of a special club in town.